Brother of girl who died at holiday park in Towyn, Wales, charged with murder

Tributes have been paid to a teenage girl who died while on holiday at a busy seaside caravan site, as her brother appeared in court charged with her murder.

Amanda Selby died at the Ty Mawr holiday park in Towyn, near Abergele, north Wales, on Saturday.

Matthew Selby, 19, of Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, appeared at Mold crown court on Wednesday charged with the murder of Amanda, who was 15.

In a statement released by North Wales police, Amanda’s family said: “Amanda was a loving daughter and granddaughter – she was caring, thoughtful, liked to help others and very much loved. She will be very sadly missed.”

Amanda’s school, Droylsden academy, posted a message on its website that said the school was “saddened” by the “tragic news”.

It said: “Our deepest sympathies and thoughts are with Amanda’s family at what is an incredibly difficult time.

“Our school family is devastated by this awful news. Amanda was a lovely student and she will be sorely missed by students and staff.

“Clearly, many members of our school community will be affected by this loss and we will be offering support to those who need it in the weeks and months ahead.

“We will also plan a tribute when the time is right so that we can remember all that Amanda brought to our school.”

A provisional trial date of 28 February 2022 was set when Selby appeared in court by video link from HMP Berwyn for a 15-minute hearing. He spoke only to confirm his name.

Judge Rowlands said the trial was expected to last five to seven days.

Selby, of Windermere Crescent, is due to appear for a plea and trial preparation hearing on 29 October.

An order made under section 45 of the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999 to ban the naming of the victim was lifted by the judge.